In order to stay competitive, CATV operators are offering high speed Internet and VoIP as services. DOCSIS 3.0 allows IP based services with customer access speeds over coax and optical networks of up to 100 Mb/s downstream. With the increase in customer access speeds and the additional services running over them, CATV headend IP networks must also increase in speed.  Now 10Gb/s, 40Gb/s and 100Gb/s Ethernet networks are not only commonplace but also a requirement Unlike CATV broadband distribution networks that are pre-instrumented with “test taps” for measuring signal quality and troubleshooting, today’s 10Gb/s+ Ethernet networks are not.

In order to stay competitive, CATV operators must accelerate IP deployment in the core and distribution networks. In doing so, CATV operators may overlook the need for Ethernet “test taps” that are inherent in their broadband distribution networks. IP based networks require monitoring and troubleshooting tools that can accurately identify, isolate and replicate the various protocols used to transmit Internet and VoIP services. The challenge for cable operators is the need to maximize application and network visibility to provide the highest quality, end-to-end service levels, while still maintaining a competitive cost structure.

RedDot Networks provides 10Gb/s Ethernet “test taps” or TAPs (Traffic Access Points) that measure signal strength and provide access for monitoring and troubleshooting. RedDot Networks Pinpoint Packet Inspection™ can identify, isolate and replicate any type of traffic on the 10Gb/s Ethernet headend. Our solutions have the processing power to locate the desired application or traffic flow, load balance sessions to multiple monitoring tools, add timestamps to preserve timing and monitor latency and jitter of VoIP. Using Pinpoint Packet Inspection™, CATV operators can monitor and troubleshoot application or network traffic with 100% visibility of the location within the Ethernet frame. RedDot Networks makes monitoring and troubleshooting 10Gb/s Ethernet headends as simple as doing a web search.

RedDot Networks’ products have been designed to operate in cable operator environments with optional -48V DC power supplies, very low power consumption (e. g. less than 80W) and minimal cooling required. The products can be configured through a web-based GUI or using a command line interface which can be used in conjunction with scripting/automation.